As we discussed yesterday, the problem with finding eco-friendly window treatments is to understand the definition.

A whole host of products have been certified ‘Green Guard” by the Green Guard Environmental Institute. This group certifies that products are safe for indoor use and/or safe for children and schools. The primary concern of this group is indoor air pollution. In the window treatment industry, this is generally referred to as ‘off-gassing’, meaning the product will emit a gas or odor for a short period of time after installation. This is generally a factor with products made from vaious plastics or vinyls, or with painted products.

While certifying that these products are safe is quite important, this certification does not fit most definitions of ‘Green’, ‘Sustainable’ or ‘Eco-Friendly’. There is not a current organization that provides a clear certification for products in the home furnishings industry. this leaves the consumer, retailer and designer to do the research.

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